Tough break for Rabbitohs as King ruled out

Russell Jackson

MATT KING'S season is officially over with South Sydney confirming the centre has a broken arm.

But the news wasn't all bad for Souths yesterday with winger Nathan Merritt (shoulder) and interchange forward Jason Clark (leg) both cleared of serious injury ahead of Saturday night's semi-final against Canberra at ANZ Stadium.

The King news comes as no shock following images of the veteran in tears in the dressing room after suffering the second-half injury in the 24-6 loss to Melbourne last Saturday.

Souths were hoping for a miracle but scans yesterday confirmed the break. ''King is unfortunately out for the season with an arm injury. Merritt and Clark no significant injury. More details tomorrow [Tuesday],'' Souths said on Twitter.

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A new left-centre might not be the only change for Souths against the Raiders with Issac Luke in the frame for a return to the starting line-up.

He could provide the Rabbitohs with some much-needed early spark against the Raiders.

Souths were blown away early by the Storm with coach Michael Maguire again opting to start the promising Nathan Peats over Luke.

The New Zealand international was introduced near the 20-minute mark but the Rabbitohs were already in trouble at that point before going into the half-time break down 18-0. In his 58 minutes, Luke made 114 metres from nine runs and racked up 34 tackles, with the Rabbitohs enjoying an improved second-half showing.

Peats had a tough time of it during his 43 minutes as the Storm dominated possession, the youngster getting through 35 tackles and picking up 34 metres from five runs.

''I don't know what Michael Maguire will be doing there … I'm sure Michael Maguire will have the best 17 on the field,'' said co-captain Roy Asotasi when asked about Luke's possible selection at No.9.

Luke was dropped to the NSW Cup last month for off-field issues and played one game for North Sydney before returning for Souths' win over Newcastle in the final game of the regular season.